Midweek MTB Race
Series – Race #8
Deer Valley – Silver
Lake Village (Park City, UT)
July 22, 2014
Steve Warner
Like most people, July has been a very busy month for me and
not a lot of time spent on the bike. Between family vacations and travel for
work, I had not ridden since my 105 miler on July 3rd. However, I
was finally able to participate in another Midweek race, although I was worried
that my training and preparation was not up to par for this race. The race
series in Utah generally start on lower elevation courses in the Spring and
then move higher and higher in the mountains as the snow melts and Summer rolls
on.
This race was at Deer Valley with a start at the Silver Lake
Lodge, which is at an elevation of 8100 feet. I was racing the Sport category
again and anticipating a 7-mile loop with about 1200 feet of elevation gain.
The race started with the most grueling climb I have ever done. It was 1200
feet of climbing in 2 miles peaking at an elevation well over 9000 feet. I call
these ski resort races in Utah “gut checks” because they absolutely test your
fitness level and mental toughness. Well, in all honesty, I struggled with this
climb more than I ever have and just could not keep enough oxygen in my body to
keep me on the bike. I had to walk portions of it, but I persisted and
conquered the climb, although unfortunately with most of the racing competition
well out in front of me.
The highlight of the race for me was the most amazing view
of the Wasatch Mountains at the top of the climb. I was above the tree line and
could see for miles. The descent back down to Silver Lake
Lodge was quite a ride too.
Overall, it was a great experience, although I would be
happy to never have to do that climb again. Special thanks to Serfas (tires,
eyewear and shorts), GU (Roctane Gel and Drink), Stan’s (sealant), and ProGold
(chain lube).
